Heavy Equipment Operator

Lee County Ditching Heavy Equipment Operator

Lee County is hiring a Ditching Heavy Equipment Operator for our Transportation team. In this role, you'll help maintain Lee County right of ways and support safe, efficient public works operations. Much of your time will be spent performing ditching operations and working alongside the Ditching Operations Crew to support drainage, roadway, and maintenance activities. This job is perfect for someone who enjoys working outdoors, operating equipment, and helping keep the community safe and moving.

Duties and Responsibilities

What You Will Do

• Perform skilled work operating large vehicles and public works equipment to maintain County right of ways.
• Perform ditching operations as a primary responsibility.
• Work directly with the Ditching Operations Crew to support drainage and roadway maintenance tasks.
• Operate equipment such as pickup trucks with trailers and dump trucks hauling ditching materials.
• Haul debris to dump sites and transport road maintenance materials and stockpile materials.
• Perform labor duties such as laying sod, shoveling, raking, grading, landscaping, and clearing debris.
• Set up, maintain, and break down safe work zones in compliance with traffic regulations and IMOT standards.
• Complete in-house training to obtain IMOT certification.
• Assist with pipe installation as needed.
• Complete minor equipment maintenance, inspections, and basic servicing.
• Maintain daily logs and promptly report equipment concerns.
• Follow all safety rules, procedures, and regulations.
• Support supervisors and crew members and work effectively as part of a team.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Education, Experience, Licensing

What We're Looking For

• High School Diploma or GED, or an equivalent combination of education and experience
• One (1) year of heavy equipment operation or closely related experience, such as:
• Roadway or public works maintenance
• Canal, stormwater, or drainage work
• Construction or sitework
• Mechanical or equipment operation
• Grounds or land maintenance
• Any similar hands-on job involving vehicles or machinery
• Ability to work safely and follow all procedures in a safety-sensitive role

Licensing Requirements

• Must possess a Florida Class B Commercial Driver's License

Preferred:

• Florida Class "A" Commercial Driver's License.
• Previous experience driving heavy machines on work sites.

Safety-Sensitive Position

• This is a safety-sensitive position and is subject to Drug and Alcohol Workplace Testing in accordance with DOT regulations (49 CFR Parts 40 and/or 382).

Extra Skills

• Able to use hand tools, power tools, and equipment safely
• Comfortable working outdoors in various weather conditions
• Good teamwork and communication skills
• Able to solve simple equipment or material issues on the job

Supplemental Information

Work Schedule:

• Monday-Thursday 7:00 AM- 5:30 PM.
• Weekend or emergency response work may be required
• Additional hours may be needed during weather events or special operations

Why Join Us?

In this hands-on role, your work directly supports the safety and efficiency of Lee County's transportation system. You'll receive competitive pay, solid benefits, and a dependable retirement plan through the State of Florida. Most importantly, you'll join a team that takes pride in keeping our community's roads, drainage systems, and public spaces in top condition.

About the Department

The Lee County Department of Transportation (DOT) plans, builds, and maintains the county's roadway network. The department provides services such as roadway construction, traffic operations, drainage improvements, sidewalk installation, landscaping, and more. DOT is committed to safety, quality, and reliable service that supports a safe and efficient transportation system for all who travel through Lee County.

About Lee County:

Lee County is located in beautiful Southwest Florida and is home to over 800,000 residents. We are dedicated to serving our community with high-quality services and a focus on sustainability and innovation. Join us in making Lee County a great place to live, work, and visit. Find out more about Lee County at Lee County Government.